Run for Heroes raises $40,000 for scholarships for children of fallen first responders (With Video)

By CINDY SCHARR

Sunday, October 7, 2012

SPRINGFIELD - Lauren DeSanctis ran the 3.1 mile Run for Heroes course in less than 27 minutes Sunday, earning a respectable third place in her age group.

But it wasn't a medal or competitiveness that prompted DeSanctis to get out of bed early to run around Colonial Park.

"In light of what happened to Brad Fox and the fact that it happened not so long ago inspired me to run this race," said DeSanctis, wife of Haverford Police Officer Matthew DeSanctis.

Plymouth Township Officer Bradley Fox, a five-year police veteran, was killed Sept. 13 during a confrontation with a hit and run suspect. A Marine veteran who served two tours in Iraq, Fox leaves behind his expectant wife and young daughter.

"I wanted to run this for all of the police officers, for my husband and all those who work so hard for Delaware County," DeSanctis said.

The 29-year-old school counselor was one of about 233 runners and walkers who participated in the 12th Annual Run for Heroes that benefits the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund.

The 5k race is held each year on Columbus Day Weekend. According to John McFadden, one of the race coordinators, this year's event raised approximately $40,000.

"We've raised, prior to this year's total, over $300,000 to benefit the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund," McFadden said. "The children of fallen police, fire and emergency responders have the ability to have college paid for by the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund. And this race is held each year to benefit this fund."

To date, 33 children have benefited from the scholarship fund. One of the scholarship recipients is currently in college and three more waiting in the wings, McFadden said.

The weather was perfect for runners - overcast and a cool 51 degrees. At 9 a.m. the race began and more than 200 people, some even pushing baby strollers, took to the course around Colonial Park.

Spectators waiting for the runners and walkers to cross the finish line were treated with donuts, of course, and coffee, hot chocolate, bagels and other treats.

The first runner to finish the 3.1 mile race did so in 15:45. Phil Celona, 21, ran the race at a 5:04 pace. WPVI meteorologist and sub-3 hour marathoner Cecily Tynan was the first female finisher, completing the course in 18:50, for a 6:04 minute mile.

The Police, Fire and Emergency Responders Trophy went to the team from the Springfield Fire Co.

Many of the runners commented on the "great course" and said they'd be back next year.